Dressed up in holiday finery, the historic Degas House at 2306 Esplanade Ave. recently held an event to showcase the former home of French impressionist Edgar Degas. The evening was a treat for guests who tasted selected French wines and Creole delicacies prepared by Vega Tapas Cafe Chef de Cuisine, Josh Garic. The Southern Food & Beverage Museum partnered with Degas House for the event.

Degas House briefly served as the artist's New Orleans home in 1872. The home was that of the artist's maternal relatives, the Musson family. Under the direction of current proprietor David Villarrubia, the property was restored and a nonprofit foundation was established in 1995 to support the extensive project. The foundation also established its mission to provide a cultural resource center for the community and to educate the public about Degas' life in New Orleans.

The Degas House Foundation provides books, videos and research material to students and scholars interested in learning about the French impressionist master. For information about the house, which is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and about the foundation and tours, visit www.degashouse.com.

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Scene and Be Seen is a weekly peek into the vibrant and diverse New Orleans culture. Please e-mail information about your event to robertagrove@hotmail.com.